Former Alabama radio color analyst Ken Stabler won't be back on the air this season.

Stabler, the former Crimson Tide and NFL quarterback, announced his permanent departure today, saying in a statement, "I will continue to support UA in any way possible and wish only the best to the entire Alabama family." He served 10 years on the UA radio team before stepping down last summer in the wake of a highly publicized arrest on a charge of driving under the influence. Stabler was ultimately acquitted of the charge.

Sources close to Stabler said he originally planned to return to the booth, but he eventually opted against it. UA athletics director Mal Moore said Stabler "has decided to pursue other opportunities."

"I appreciate Kenny's contributions to our program over the years and I look forward to that relationship continuing in the future," Moore said. "Kenny's an important part of our history and his involvement as part of our announce team over the years was tremendous."

Crimson Tide Sports Network general manager Jim Carabin said he hopes to decide on Stabler's replacement "very soon." The obvious lead candidate is former Cleveland Browns GM Phil Savage, who will call Saturday's A-Day Game and has indicated his interest in serving as Alabama's color analyst in the fall.